St. Louis Wrongful Termination Attorneys
Representation for Retaliatory Discharges in Missouri
At Sedey Harper Westhoff, we understand that losing your job can be devastating, especially when it happens unfairly or unlawfully. If you believe you were wrongfully terminated, you deserve to know your rights and pursue justice. Our experienced St. Louis wrongful termination attorneys are here to guide you through this difficult time and fight for the compensation and accountability you deserve.
To learn how we can help, call (314) 819-0963 or contact us online today.
What is Wrongful Termination?
Wrongful termination occurs when an employer illegally fires or lays off an employee in violation of federal or state laws, employment contracts, or public policies. While Missouri is an "at-will" employment state—meaning employers can terminate employees for any reason or no reason at all—there are still exceptions to this rule. For example, it is illegal for an employer to terminate an employee for discriminatory reasons, retaliation, or in breach of a written contract.
Common examples of wrongful termination include:
- Being fired due to your race, gender, religion, age, national origin, disability, or other protected class.
- Retaliation for reporting workplace harassment, discrimination, or safety violations.
- Termination for exercising legal rights, such as taking family or medical leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
- Being fired for refusing to participate in illegal activities or for whistleblowing.
Missouri & Federal Wrongful Termination Laws
Employees in Missouri are protected by a combination of state and federal laws that prohibit wrongful termination. Understanding these laws can help you determine whether your employer acted unlawfully.
Federal Laws:
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Protects employees with disabilities from discrimination and ensures reasonable accommodations are provided.
- Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA): Protects employees aged 40 and older from age-based discrimination.
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): Grants eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for certain family or medical reasons.
- Whistleblower Protection Act: Protects employees who report illegal activities or safety violations in the workplace.
Missouri Laws:
- Missouri Human Rights Act (MHRA): Expands protections against discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, disability, or age.
- Workers’ Compensation Retaliation: Prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who file workers’ compensation claims.
- Public Policy Exception: Prevents employers from terminating employees for refusing to engage in illegal activities or for exercising certain legal rights.
How to Prove a Wrongful Termination Claim
Proving wrongful termination requires demonstrating that your employer’s actions violated the law. This process often involves gathering substantial evidence to support your claim, including:
- Employment Records: Documents such as your employment contract, performance reviews, and termination letter can help establish the terms of your employment and the reasons given for your dismissal.
- Witness Statements: Testimonies from coworkers or others who witnessed the events leading to your termination.
- Communications: Emails, text messages, or other correspondence that demonstrate discriminatory or retaliatory intent.
- Documented Incidents: Records of complaints you filed about discrimination, harassment, or illegal activities.
At Sedey Harper Westhoff, we will work closely with you to collect and organize the evidence needed to build a strong case. Our attorneys are committed to ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are upheld.
What to Expect During the Legal Process
Filing a wrongful termination claim can seem daunting, but with the right legal team by your side, the process becomes manageable. Here is what you can expect:
- Initial Consultation: We will evaluate your case and advise you on whether you have a valid wrongful termination claim.
- Filing a Complaint: If you decide to move forward, we will file a complaint with the appropriate agency, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Missouri Commission on Human Rights (MCHR).
- Negotiations: In many cases, employers prefer to settle disputes outside of court. We will negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair resolution.
- Litigation: If a settlement cannot be reached, our experienced litigators will represent you in court to seek the justice you deserve.
Why Choose Sedey Harper Westhoff?
When it comes to wrongful termination cases, experience matters. Sedey Harper Westhoff has a proven track record of success in employment law and wrongful termination claims. Our attorneys are passionate about protecting workers’ rights and holding employers accountable for illegal practices.
What sets us apart:
- Extensive Knowledge: Our attorneys specialize in employment law, ensuring you receive expert guidance.
- Client-Focused Representation: We take the time to understand your unique circumstances and tailor our approach to meet your needs.
- Results-Oriented Advocacy: We are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for every client.
If you’re looking for a trusted St. Louis wrongful termination attorney, Sedey Harper Westhoff is here to help.
Our team is standing by and ready to assist you with your case. Contact us today at (314) 819-0963 to schedule a consultation.
- We advise you about whether you have a case and how strong it is.
- We help you negotiate for severance or a better severance package.
- We file charges for you with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Missouri Commission on Human Rights, and the Illinois Department of Human Rights.
- We prosecute your case in state and federal court for a just result.
We Get Results!
Our clients say we are smart, hard-working, aggressive advocates, who will fight for your rights.
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"I have the utmost respect for Sedey Harper Westhoff."
They are a unique group of smart, talented, dedicated and passionate attorneys working together to represent their clients with the highest degree of legal expertise, and to make a positive difference in the world. Their work is unparalleled.
- Francine K. -
"The counsel that I received from Sedey Harper Westhoff during each phase of my discrimination and retaliation case was excellent."
The professionalism and knowledge exhibited, and the personal touch my family received, was comforting during a very difficult time in my life.
- Rickey D. -
"You don’t just get one attorney… you get an entire firm on your side. I can’t recommend them highly enough."
Their reputation with the court system and the opposing firm / defendant spoke volumes in getting this case to a winning settlement. Most importantly, they are real people in a sea of so many attorneys.
- Terry H.
Saint Louis, MO 63139 Map & Directions